Logitech MK270 wireless keyboard and mouse
A basic full-size wireless set. Fine for everyday use; gamers may want a wired mouse later.
How to pick a budget desktop: specs that matter
Desktop listings throw a wall of numbers at you. Here's what actually changes how the computer feels, in the order it matters for most people.
1. Decide what it's for
- Web, email, documents, streaming: almost any current desktop is enough. Don't pay for a gaming graphics card.
- Gaming: the graphics card matters most, then the processor.
- Photo or video editing: processor cores and memory matter more.
2. Graphics card (for gaming)
"Dedicated graphics" means a separate graphics card. "Integrated" means graphics built into the processor, which is fine for everyday use but weak for modern games. When comparing cards, a newer generation in the same tier is usually faster than an older one. For example, an RTX 5060 is a newer generation than an RTX 3050. Look for 8GB or more of video memory for current games.
3. Processor (CPU)
Check the generation, not just "Ryzen 7" or "Core i7". A Ryzen 7 2700 and a Ryzen 7 8700F are both "Ryzen 7", but they're several generations apart. For a budget gaming PC, a recent 6-core or 8-core processor is plenty.
4. Memory (RAM)
16GB is the sweet spot for most people in 2026. 8GB feels slow with a browser full of tabs. 32GB is nice for editing or heavy multitasking. Newer systems use DDR5 memory; older ones use DDR4.
5. Storage
Get an SSD, not a hard drive, for the main drive. It's the single biggest factor in how fast the computer starts and opens programs. 1TB is comfortable; 500GB fills up quickly once you install a few games.
6. Things that are easy to overlook
- Power supply: a decent wattage leaves room to upgrade the graphics card later.
- Wi-Fi: not every tower includes it. Check the listing if you can't run an Ethernet cable.
- Keyboard, mouse and monitor: many towers don't include them. Budget for them.
- Seller: on big retail sites, some listings come from third-party marketplace sellers. Check who ships it and the return policy.
- Warranty and returns: buying from a local store makes returns easier.
7. Compare price per upgrade
Line up two towers and ask what the extra money buys. In our Evansville pickup list (prices as of Oct 30, 2026), $175 more moved from a 6-core processor and entry-level graphics to an 8-core processor and a newer-generation card. That's a good step. Another tower cost $350 more than that for the same processor and graphics card, which is mostly paying for the brand and case.
Accessories if your tower doesn't include them
Affiliate links: the Amazon links on this page are affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases, at no extra cost to you. Prices change often, so check the current price on Amazon. Disclosure
Acer 23.8-inch 1080p 120Hz monitor
A budget 1080p IPS monitor. 1080p matches what budget graphics cards handle well.
Belkin 8-outlet surge protector
Plug the tower and monitor into a surge protector, not straight into the wall. Kentucky gets its share of summer storms.
This guide is general advice based on published specs. It isn't based on hands-on benchmark testing.